- Choose a fire alarm system based on your building type.
- The main components of a fire alarm system are the control panel, detectors & alarms.
- Install a fire alarm system in compliance with NFPA 72 guidelines.
- Test the system with a smoke simulation & check the functionality of the power backup.
- Regular maintenance of a fire alarm system ensures reliability.
Fire alarm installation can be a daunting task. You need to learn the regulations required, find a fire safety contractor, choose the integrations you want in your system, and manage the overall cost while keeping the safety of your occupants in mind.
With constantly evolving regulations, it is becoming increasingly complex to decide what to integrate into your system to optimize its ability to detect smoke, heat, and other fire hazards without putting the lives of occupants at risk. Fire alarms are crucial, whether you are installing them for residential or commercial properties. Given the horrifying number of deaths and property losses caused by fires, one should avoid making a poor decision when selecting a fire alarm system and ensure that it is maintained regularly.
This guide will provide everything you will need to select the right system as per your needs, the regulations that are required for the system design, installation, and maintenance, how to strategically place the detectors and other devices, a step-by-step process for installing both battery-operated and hardwired systems, how to test and verify the system after installation, and the ongoing maintenance requirements.
Table of Contents
How To Choose the Right Fire Alarm System
Before we begin, let’s review the types of fire alarm systems and determine which system is best for residential and commercial buildings.
Generally, properties can be categorized into small residential, medium commercial, large commercial, and industrial settings. A fire alarm system can be a simple battery-operated smoke detector or be integrated with multiple detection devices, notification appliances, a fire alarm control unit, fire alarm annunciators, a fire suppression system, and ventilation systems. The design of the system depends on legal requirements and the integrations desired, based on the specific needs of your building.
For residential buildings, conventional fire alarm systems and wireless fire alarm systems are the best option:
The conventional fire alarm system divides specific areas into zones and is hardwired to the fire detection system, which includes smoke and heat detectors, notification appliances, and other fire protection devices. It is affordable and easy to install.
The wireless fire alarm system is suitable for modern homes. Additional detectors can be installed to expand the system in the future. There’s no complex wiring, and it uses radio signals to communicate between the sensor and the fire alarm control panel.
For commercial settings, professional installation of addressable fire alarm systems is compulsory.
In addressable systems, the fire alarm control panel assigns unique addresses to fire alarm initiation devices like smoke detectors and manual pull stations. This helps to find the exact location of the fire so that emergency forces can react faster and minimize the spread of damage. All the devices are connected in a single-loop circuit.
For more complex facilities, it is advisable to install a voice evacuation fire alarm system that alerts the fire department in real-time and guides occupants through the emergency exits.
Key Components Of A Fire Alarm System
The key components of the fire alarm system will vary depending on the type and the design of the system:
Fire Alarm Control Panel
The fire panel is like the brain of the entire fire alarm system. It receives and processes signals from fire detection devices and determines whether it is a false alarm. If it isn’t, it activates notification devices such as smoke alarms and strobe lights to alert occupants. Along with that, it activates fire suppression systems and shuts down the HVAC units.
Fire Detection Device
Fire detection devices usually include smoke detectors, flame detectors, heat detectors, manual call points, and manual pull stations.
Notification Appliances
Visible notification devices include strobe lights and flashlights, while audible notification appliances include alarms and horns.
Power Sources and Battery Backup
A power supply is necessary for the fire alarm system to operate, but a battery backup is essential for the system to function during power outages.
Manual Pull Station
A pull station is a manually actuated device. Occupants can trigger the fire alarm in case the automatic systems are not working. Pull stations are usually placed near the emergency exit doors.
How To Properly Install Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors should be positioned strategically to make sure that they activate promptly when smoke rises.
For residential use, install smoke alarms inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas, at the top of stairways, and in hallways. In the kitchen, position the detector at least 10 feet away from cooking appliances to reduce the chances of false alarms.
For commercial use, detectors should be placed throughout occupied rooms and near exits to ensure comprehensive coverage. The spacing for the detector placements should comply with the regulation outlined by NFPA 72.
Fire Alarm System Installation
As mentioned earlier, installing a fire alarm system is complex. One must evaluate the site to design the system for optimal performance, plan a custom layout based on the building’s needs, hire a qualified electrician for professional installation to ensure compliance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 72) and ADA guidelines, and finally, test the system’s reliability and communication module.
We have broken down the installation guide into two parts: one for the hardwired fire alarm system and another for the battery-operated fire alarm system.
Hard-Wired System
NFPA 72 mandates the installation of a hardwired fire alarm system by a professional electrician.
Here is a step-by-step process of installing a hard-wired fire alarm system:
Develop a comprehensive wiring plan that outlines the cable runs and the placement of the junction box. Make sure that the wiring specifications and installation standards adhere to local regulations.
Before installing the system, switch off the power from the main breaker.
Connect the fire detection devices using a 14/2 or 14/3 electrical wire. Secure the cables with wire nuts. There should be enough space between the connection points for future adjustments.
The junction boxes should be placed according to the local code specifications.
Secure the base plate of each detector to the junction box and connect the wiring. Use red or yellow wires for interconnection.
Connect the detector to a 120V power source, along with a battery backup. Follow the manufacturer’s wiring diagram if integrating a FACP is involved.
Finally, set up the system settings and designate zones for each device, along with the communication protocols for interconnected devices.
Battery-Operated System
A property owner can install the battery-operated system themselves by following the manufacturer’s instructions and fire safety protocols. However, it is recommended to hire a certified professional for this task.
Here is a step-by-step process of installing a battery-operated fire alarm system:
Determine optimal locations for the detectors to function effectively. Clear the area and ensure proper access to the mounting surfaces. Installation requires screws, screwdrivers, anchors, and drills. Additional tools may be necessary depending on individual needs.
Use the mounting bracket to mark the drill points, and then drill holes based on those points. It is recommended to use anchors for drywall to ensure a stable setup.
Now, secure the base plate for detectors to the ceiling or wall using screws.
Set up the device by inserting lithium or alkaline batteries and opening the battery compartment. Before mounting, check if the device is working.
Once checked, twist the detector onto the mounting plate and ensure that it is properly locked in its place.
Comprehensive Guide To Testing And Verifying The System
It is necessary to test and verify that the installed fire system is functioning correctly and that all the wiring and interconnections are done properly.
Press and hold the test button on the smoke detector to see if a loud beep sounds.
Use canned smoke spray near the detector and check if it activates.
If heat detectors are installed, verify whether they detect a temperature rise using a heat gun.
Unplug the AC source and check if the system operates on battery backup.
If the FACP is integrated, trigger an alarm and confirm that the correct location displays on the panel.
After testing the system, reset all the devices.
Maintaining The Fire Alarm System
To ensure the system’s reliability and that it complies with the safety regulations outlined by NFPA 72, here are the recommended frequencies of maintenance:
Weekly Maintenance
Visually inspect for any dust or debris on the smoke detectors and alarms. Ensure that the indicator lights of the FACP for each zone are functioning properly.
Monthly Maintenance
Press the test button on the smoke detectors to verify that they are functioning properly. Activate the manual pull stations and confirm they are sending a signal to the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP). Perform a battery backup test to ensure that the fire alarm system operates during power outages.
Semi-annual Maintenance
Conduct a complete fire drill and verify that the emergency exit signs and lighting are functioning correctly.
Annual Maintenance
Your entire fire alarm system must be inspected by a licensed fire protection inspector. Replace the batteries in battery-operated systems, and check for any loose connections.
Conclusion
A fire alarm system is more than a legal requirement. From selecting the right system to installation, testing, and maintenance, it is essential to maintain compliance and protect your facility.
ZenFire helps businesses to streamline fire alarm system inspections using automated checklists and maintain compliance with NFPA regulations and local fire codes.
Stay ahead of fire safety challenges while we take care of the complexity. Schedule a free demo and secure your facility today with ZenFire!
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